Three crucial Patriots players for Week 8 vs. Browns

Sunday, the New England Patriots (5-2) take on the Cleveland Browns (2-5). 

The Patriots regularly rely on key names like quarterback Drake Maye, wide receiver Stefon Diggs and cornerback Christian Gonzalez, but on Sunday, more obscure names will have to step up. Despite being one of the NFL's weakest teams, Cleveland presents unique challenges.

Here are three Patriots players who will be important for Sunday's bout:

RB Rhamondre Stevenson

Stevenson has not been a reliable rusher as of late. He has fumbled 10 times in his last 20 games, including three this season, and his two fumbles against the Steelers in Week 3 greatly contributed to New England's loss.

This season, the Browns have forced an NFL-leading seven rushing fumbles. They will be targeting Stevenson and his weak ball-carrying abilities.

Stevenson's first job is not to maximize his yardage or points production. It is to take care of the football. If he does that, the Patriots have a good chance.

Linebacker Robert Spillane

In three starts, Browns rookie QB Dillon Gabriel has completed 59.2% of his passes for 527 yards and two touchdowns. He is not an offensive threat, and the Browns know that, and the pressure will be on rookie running back Quinshon Judkins to carry the offense.

Patriots defensive linemen Christian Barmore and Milton Williams will be involved, but Judkins' main matchup is Spillane. In the likely event Judkins squeaks past Barmore and Williams — the Patriots' first line of defense — Spillane will have to make the stop. New England should feel comfortable trusting Spillane, who leads the team in tackles (53).

If Judkins is contained, the Browns will be forced to turn to the passing game. From the Patriots' perspective, forcing the ball into Gabriel's hands is a win, as he is far less dangerous than Judkins.

Wide receiver Kayshon Boutte

Diggs (chest) was limited in Thursday's practice. If he does not fully heal by Sunday's game, Boutte must fill his role.

The LSU alum has the second-most receiving yards on the team (356) and the most touchdowns (four). If he takes over Diggs' part as Maye's top target, he will have all the tools necessary to succeed. It will then become a question of execution.

The Browns have allowed the third-fewest passing yards per game (173.7) this season. That could mean Boutte may struggle to find creases in the secondary, but Browns starting cornerback Tyson Campbell (quad) has been limited this week. If Campbell does not play to full capacity on Sunday, that could ease some pressure off Boutte.